9 FAM 102.2
Visa-Related Roles
(CT:VISA-1897; 01-29-2024)
(Office of Origin: CA/VO)
9 fam 102.2-1 role of consular officers
(CT:VISA-1772; 05-19-2023)
When reviewing a visa application and interviewing a visa applicant, you must consider the applicant's qualifications for the visa under the law as it applies to the specific visa type. Each case should be decided on its own merit. If applicable to the visa type, you should consider the presumption of immigrant intent. Review all cases for the possibility of fraud, and ensure the applicant has no ineligibilities. If there are ineligibilities, consider whether a waiver would be applicable. You are responsible for conducting as complete a clearance as is necessary to establish the eligibility of an applicant to receive a visa.
9 FAM 102.2-2 role of department of state
(CT:VISA-1772; 05-19-2023)
The Department of State oversees the visa process abroad through its consular officers who determine visa eligibility, and works closely with interagency partners, especially DHS, in this process. We are often the first U.S. Government agency to have contact with foreign nationals wishing to visit the United States.
9 FAM 102.2-3 role of department of homeland security
(CT:VISA-731; 02-05-2019)
DHS enforces and administers U.S. immigration laws. Within DHS, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides immigration-related services and benefits such as petition approval, naturalization and work authorization. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is responsible for enforcing immigration and customs laws. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is primarily responsible for enforcement of immigration and customs laws along the borders and at port-of-entry. For more information on working with DHS, see 9 FAM 602.2-2.
9 FAM 102.2-4 role of other key parties
(CT:VISA-1897; 01-29-2024)
You may also encounter multiple Federal agencies when dealing with visas including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Department of Labor (DOL), as well as other agencies that share data and coordinate lookout and screening activities in relation to visa adjudication. For more information on working with other U.S. Government departments, see 9 FAM 602.2-3.